It’s cold outside so you bundle up. Not doing so, would lead to some pretty bad consequences. The same thing happens when you don’t prepare your car for the colder winter weather. By taking some car care measures, you can better protect your vehicle and avoid these common winter car problems.
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- Check and replace an older car battery. Dead batteries are probably one of the most common winter car problems that face drivers. A cold winter morning is a sure-fire way for an older vehicle battery not to start the engine. Below-freezing weather puts a strain on an older battery so it has to work harder. If your car battery is three to four years old, consider buying a new one. At the very least, we can test it for you.
- Check the condition and level of the antifreeze. The antifreeze in your radiator must be mixed properly to make sure it protects your engine from freezing and overheating. It must also have the correct pH balance to prevent corrosion of the engine’s cooling system. Again, the technicians at Country Road Automotive, in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, can test the antifreeze for you. If the antifreeze is not mixed correctly, you risk cracking the engine block. Trust us, you don’t want that to happen.
- Check the tire air pressure at least once a month. Thankfully, the majority of vehicles on the road are equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors (TPMS). They are designed to let you know when your tire pressure drops too low. Even so, it’s still a good idea to check tire pressure once a month. When you do, you can also check to see the condition of your tires. Are they wearing evenly? This could indicate problems with your steering or alignment. Is there enough tire tread? Have the tires replaced as soon as you notice there isn’t enough tire tread.
- Replace the wipers and add washer fluid. It’s tough enough seeing when driving in a snow or ice storm. Don’t add to it the lack of visibility from old windshield wipers. The cost of a new set of wipers is well worth it. When it comes to washer fluid, make sure the reservoir is always topped off. You may even want to carry a bottle of fluid in your vehicle, just in case you run out.
- Make sure the level of gas in the tank doesn’t get too low. It’s never a good idea to let the gas tank get to near empty, but especially so in the winter. Moist air in the tank can freeze and lead to ice in the fuel lines.
Trust your winter car care to the technicians at Country Road Auto and you’ll be able to avoid these common winter car problems. Click here to schedule an appointment with our auto repair shop in Lincoln Park, NJ.